Stroud District

WE FORGET’

NEW YEAR, NEW KITCHEN. WHY PAY MORE IN 2023?

November’s winning cover photo: Anne Johnes

Welcome to November

In this issue, Val Starr shares her advice on dressing for the changing weather, and Kirsty Lilley highlights the importance of managing stress, particularly during these turbulent times. Gill Greenwell shares her favourite high-street homeware gift ideas in her Interior Design feature, while Al Hidden takes a trip to delightful Derbyshire in his latest Holidays & Travel article.

As we head towards the festive season, our What’s On section is filling up with events for everyone, including theatre, art, music and much more.

If you have a festive event coming up in December that you’d like to promote in The Local Answer, we’re offering a limited number of free listings in our What’s On section. See inside for more details.

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Delicious Dish with Helen Kingscott

Warming winter beef cobbler

Ingredients:

3 medium onions

3 sticks celery

½ medium butternut squash

200g mushrooms

750g diced stewing steak

2 beef stock cubes

500ml bottle of ale (I used Guinness)

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tin chopped tomatoes

30g/2tbsp cornflour

Chopped parsley to garnish.

For the topping:

250g/10oz self-raising flour

75g/3oz butter

30g/2tbsp horseradish sauce

1 egg

Milk to bind

Method:

1 Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F/gas mark 5).

2 Heat the oil in a large ovenproof casserole dish on a medium heat.

3 Add the finely chopped onion and celery and sauté

for eight minutes until soft. Add the nutmeg and stir in.

4 Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces and add to the onion mix. Sauté until the meat is coloured all over.

5 Add the chopped butternut squash and mushrooms and cook for another five minutes.

6 Crumble in the stock cubes, add the tomatoes and the ale, and enough water to cover the meat. Pop the lid on the casserole and put in the oven for approximately two hours or until the meat is tender.

7 If the mixture needs thickening, dissolve the cornflour in a little water and stir into the casserole.

8 Season with salt and pepper then transfer to a different ovenproof dish if you want to present your cobbler at the table or leave in the original casserole dish.

9 To make the topping, put

the flour and butter into a bowl. Using your fingertips, rub the mixture together until it resembles breadcrumbs.

10 Season with salt and pepper, then make a well in the centre and add the horseradish and egg. Mix all together, adding a little milk if needed to make a soft dough.

11 Tip onto a floured work surface and press down gently to flatten it.

12 Use a small cutter to cut out around 10-12 scones.

13 Arrange the scones on top of the beef, leaving gaps for them to rise. Brush the tops with a little milk to give some colour.

14 Pop back in the oven for around 15-20 minutes until the scones turn light brown.

15 Sprinkle chopped parsley on the top and serve with your favourite vegetables.

A comforting dish for cold, dark nights. Serves 6

Mirror Mirror on the Wall

with Val Starr Winds of change

As we reflect on an unforgettable summer, we now face the challenge of what is predicted to be a hard financial winter for many. Sadly, fashion cannot change the weather but, with a little planning, we can ensure we and our loved ones stay cosy with the right clothing.

Layering is key. Gone are the days we thought a very heavy item of clothing would keep us warm; we now know that lighter layers are the key to success. I was surprised to learn that in the cooler months, cotton is not the best fabric to have next to your skin, as it doesn’t hold the heat well and can make you feel quite clammy. Polyester is actually more effective.

Wool is by far the warmest material to keep you warm, Icelandic wool being one of the best. Blends of wool and acrylic are somewhere in the middle. Let’s explore the best ways to layer.

Bottom layer

This is the layer of clothing we wear closest to our skin and

the main purpose is to keep you dry, so you do not become damp and cold. Silk is not often thought of as a cosy fabric, but it’s a great insulator as it is lightweight and breathable. It might cost a little more, but it does offer value for money.

Always wash silk according to the manufacturer’s instructions – you don’t want to invest in an item of clothing to then spoil it on the first wash. Thermals are a less expensive option, but also very effective.

Middle layer

Think of this one as your insulation to keep you warm. Consider fleece for this layer, as it will trap heat whilst being breathable, and it also gets warm fast. It’s an easy fabric to care for, so low-maintenance and affordable.

Top layer

This final layer will be open to the elements, so it should be waterproof as well as windproof. Nylon and down jackets are good options for keeping the rain, ice or snow out!

Options

Wool is a natural insulator; it has moisture-wicking properties, but can often feel itchy, so look for the merino variety which is much softer and more comfortable.

Cashmere is always a popular fabric, as well as a fashion statement, as it is ultra-soft, feels very luxurious and is breathable. Cashmere comes in different plies, which makes a difference to the warmth. Ply means the number of cashmere threads twisted to make the

yarn; so a three twist thread would be 3-ply.

Starting at 1-ply and going up to 12-ply, what you buy will depend on your budget (the latter is the most expensive option). I would always recommend a minimum of 2-ply, as 1-ply is very thin. Cashmere is not just for sweaters – you can find socks, scarves, and even coats made from this fabric.

Be careful when storing cashmere, as you don’t want to risk moths dining on your precious purchases. Wash first, as those pesky moths are attracted even more if the cashmere has any residual body oil or perfume. Make sure the item is dry before folding and storing, preferably in an arable storage bag so the item can breathe.

M&S has a great range of cashmere jumpers in a lovely selection of colours (left). If cashmere is not within your budget, they also have some super soft cashmere-like jumpers for £17.50, which are equally as attractive.

Medical Health

with Kirsty Lilley

Managing stress

November heralds National Stress Awareness Day. Whilst the current global and national picture continues to look gloomy, it is important that we take steps to manage our stress levels and look after our mental health.

Millions of people in the UK experience stress and this is damaging to our health and wellbeing. For example, at some point in the last year, 74% of us have felt so stressed that we have felt unable to cope (Mental Health Foundation).

Stress is the feeling of being under too much emotional or mental pressure. When you are stressed, your body releases hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. This is your body’s reaction to help you deal with pressure or threats – sometimes called a ‘fight or flight’ response. Hormone levels usually return to normal once the pressure or threat has passed.

A small amount of stress can be useful; it can motivate you to act and complete tasks, and make you feel alive and excited. But too much stress can cause negative effects such as a change in your mood or body, and relationship issues. It can also worsen existing mental health difficulties and contribute to their development over the long run.

There are many ways in which you can reduce stress –below are a few examples.

Move more

Exercising reduces the buildup of stress hormones in our body. Even a short walk outside can boost your mood and give you a chance to clear your mind without any distractions.

Eat well

While we shouldn’t deprive ourselves of treats, or become obsessive about our diets, eating a healthy, balanced diet will naturally boost your mood and give you more energy.

Sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep helps you keep things in perspective. Try to keep to a routine of getting up in the morning and going to bed at night at the same time each day. Your body should naturally adjust and begin to feel tired at the right time each day. If you’re struggling to sleep well, look for advice on the NHS website.

Stay positive

Easier said than done! It’s natural for us to focus on what we haven’t achieved each day, but it’s important to reflect on what you have achieved, however small. This will help to improve your mindset over time. Set realistic goals for each day, week and month to improve your confidence and help you feel more in control of short- and long-term tasks.

Set boundaries

Saying ‘no’ to friends or family can be terrifying, which is why we usually say ‘yes’, even if it’s likely to increase our stress levels. Saying ‘no’ promotes healthy boundaries with the people around you. It also opens a dialogue which allows you to talk through what your current focus is.

Make time for relaxation

Dedicating a small portion of your day to relaxing not only gives you something to look forward to, but also gives you that all-important opportunity to switch off. Self-care is often sniffed at, but has never been more important. Simple things like a long bath after a tough day help you compartmentalise negative emotions you may be feeling, relax tension you’re carrying in your muscles, and calm your mind.

Above all, don’t struggle on in isolation – reach out for help from a friend or professional. For more information visit www.nhs.uk/every-mindmatters or speak to your GP.

Holidays & Travel with Al Hidden

Delightful Derbyshire

Many years ago, I nearly moved to Derbyshire with work. Fortunately – as it happens, a bullet well dodged – the move didn’t happen. However, while researching possible places to live, I was struck by the stunning landscapes between Ashbourne and the market town of Buxton.

Excellent walks close to town

Several decades later, it was a pleasure to spend a few days in Buxton, an easy drive up the M5, M6 and A53 from Gloucestershire. Not only is the town great for a Peak District ‘city break’, but it’s also perfect for exploring on foot, on two wheels or by car.

There’s loads of choice within a short drive – or without driving if you choose the lovely Ring of Trees walk (10 miles) or explore Combs Moss’s moderately challenging circumnavigation. Whatever you do, always take suitable equipment and follow good hill-walking practice, including bringing suitable maps. All walks mentioned are on OS Explorer OL24.

On a day of less clement weather, the circular Ring of

Trees through Buxton’s ‘urban’ woodlands made a great introduction to this northern spa town and its environs. We started at Poole’s Cavern Visitor Centre and headed clockwise via Shay Woods and Corbar Woods before finishing the day with a picnic and breathtaking views from Solomon’s Temple atop Grin Low Hill.

From our centrally located Airbnb apartment, all the town’s renowned highlights were nearby, including its Pavilion Gardens, impressive Devonshire Dome, famous opera house and tempting teashops. Leaving town, excursion potential ranges from highbrow Chatsworth House to

wider exploration of landscapes such as Curbar Edge.

Gridstone crags and adders

Our week’s highlight was undoubtedly the 10 mile (16 km) circular walk on the craggy escarpments of Curbar Edge and White Edge, half an hour east of Buxton. The company was congenial and Mother Nature arranged great weather – plus a basking adder and swooping curlew – to accompany the awe-inspiring 360-degree panoramas.

In autumn, I’m told, rutting stags are a regular sight – and sound – on the walk. Afterwards, on most Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, you can enjoy delicious home-baked goodies at Jolly’s Coffee & Cake in Clodhall Lane car park.

For various reasons, I’m glad I didn’t move to Derbyshire. Avoiding relocation back then only made our recent trip even more special. It’s not just Sarah’s amazing sausage rolls, chocolate brownies and vintage Citroën catering van that come highly recommended when you visit Derbyshire!

Does your pet feel anxious when they come to the vet? Are you worried about the upcoming fireworks season?

Throughout November, we are offering 50% off our home visit cost. For £25* you can have a Vet and Veterinary Care Assistant visit you and your pet in the comfort of your own home. These visits are ideal for nervous pets (and owners!).

Please contact us at the practice to book in. *£25 visit fee does not include any costs incurred in relation to medication and services provided during the appointment.

If you have any concerns about keeping your pet safe and healthy over the winter, please get in touch.

Distributors

Immediately in Cam, Dursley, Nailsworth, Stonehouse and The Stanleys, and to join our waiting list for other areas across the Stroud District

Please visit www.thelocalanswer.co.uk/ become-a-distributor.aspx

Please do not call the office our staff are very busy, so may not always be available to take your call.

Each round is made up of 150-400 copies per month. The rate of pay is 6 pence/copy. Depending on property types, our current team of people average between 100-150 copies/hour (equivalent to £6-£9/hour).

Magazines are delivered to Distributors’ homes towards the end of each month and we expect deliveries to be completed within four days between the hours of 7am and 9pm.

You must be 13+ years old, flexible, reliable and sufficiently physically fit to perform the duties.

Parenting & Guardianship

with Roberta Smart

Let the light shine

November has to be one of my favourite months of the year. As we deepen into darkness of wintertime, we turn to our imaginations to bring more and more light into our lives.

From bonfire night to Diwali, festivals of light to Christingles, we can see light being the focus of every celebration, and it is simply joyous.

Bring more light into your lives

This year the world has taken on a rather new shape and now more than ever we need to ‘look to the light’ to stay happy and healthy. So, how can you and your family bring more light into your lives during the gloomy days and rather chilly nights?

Not many of us have the blessing of a real fire in our homes anymore and we are all well aware of the perils of central heating and energy bills. Consider installing a wood-burning stove (check the current regulations) or, for a more temporary solution, a chiminea in the garden. With a warm blanket and mug of hot chocolate in hand, you can

enjoy sitting together and catching up on the day.

Candles give off a surprising amount of heat, and with the plethora of gorgeously scented candles in jars these days you can bring light and fragrance to every room in your home. Make sure they’re placed out of reach of little hands, and remember to put them out before leaving the room. Add colour and creativity

Invite the children to make paper lanterns to decorate their own homes, or create handmade bunting to string across the doorways. Adding colour and creativity to a space certainly brings a smile to everyone’s face and you can all have fun creating together.

As we turn down the thermostat and watch our energy consumption, now is a great time to help kids see the connection between the way we live and how we pay for it. A great winter project could be to create a game of ‘Energy Watch’ – using your smart meter or energy watch device, make a note of which appliances in

your home use the most energy and create a plan to cut energy usage by creative means.

Help children begin to learn about how we live

When tied in to celebrations of light and creative approaches to illumination and celebrations, this could be an incredible opportunity to help children of all ages begin to learn about how we live and the hidden costs of the things we take for granted. It’s also a great time to make changes within the family such as cutting down laundry, avoiding using the tumble dryer, recycling more conscientiously, or cutting food waste and being creative with leftovers.

There are so many ways in which we can all change how we live and make massive inroads into improving our lives. Maybe this time of tightening belts and watching the budget could be one of the biggest opportunities we have ever had to truly make a difference.

Stay warm and stay safe, and I’ll see you in December.

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Motoring with Toby Aiken

Not a happy camper

Way back in 2015, I started my automotive journalist journey with my first car review. I reviewed a BMW 3 Series tourer.

That weekend, we took it camping in the Forest of Dean as it was a practical estate and could fit a lot of camping paraphernalia in it. In fairness, it was slightly smaller on paper than my own car at the time, but it looked a hell of a lot better.

Now, I know this will cause some feathers to be ruffled, but here we go. I don’t like camping.

There, I said it. I like my own bathroom, a toilet that doesn’t require a walk outside in the middle of the night and a mattress that doesn’t deflate overnight. I know many of you will like camping, and that’s fine, you’re just wrong (in my humble opinion!).

Camping in a BMW 3 Series Tourer

But I digress… This summer, as a family, we went camping again in a BMW 3 Series Tourer (my own this time) but –thankfully – not in a tent.

We went to Brittany and stayed in a log cabin (with its own toilet) and had a fantastic time. But the thing is, in 2015, my kids were five and one. Their clothes and accoutrements didn’t take up a lot of room, apart from the buggy. Now, they are 11 and eight and wanted to bring a lot more ‘stuff’ with them.

My car has a spacious boot, but I wasn’t convinced it would be comfortable in the back with the odd bits of

luggage that wouldn’t fit piled around the kids.

Enter Halfords PR team and a nice shiny roof box. And the rails to go with it, as my car didn’t have them. And the fitting service too to make sure it wouldn’t fall off.

The box can handle a good amount of weight

The time of the holiday came around and I had the luxury of packing into the boot and the roof box. Fitting the box was no problem, with four very straightforward hand clamps inside the box. Picking what went in each was also fine as the box can handle a good amount of weight and has a diagram inside to suggest items for an even weight distribution.

As it turns out, I kept relatively light but awkwardly shaped objects for the box, and the cases and bags went in the boot. The box also has a

few ratchet straps to secure everything inside before you close and lock it.

The trip went smoothly on all fronts

I’d always been sceptical of the practicalities of driving with a massive box on the roof – decreased handling ability, wind noise, aerodynamic drag and increased fuel consumption were heavy on my mind, especially given the recent hikes in fuel prices.

But in reality, despite a little noise (drowned out by the kids in the back) I didn’t really notice a difference and the trip went off smoothly on all fronts. We also had space to spare to bring back some wine!

So to anyone considering camping, my advice is to avoid tents at all costs. Instead, get yourself a roof box, put on a good road trip playlist and find a log cabin or cottage with an internal toilet!

What’s On

The Local Answer Event Listings are compiled and presented in good faith with the kind support of many contributors. We recommend you use the contact details provided to check event information updates prior to planning your visit.

5 NOVEMBER THE NUTCRACKER

Prepare to enter a magical new world – the nutcracker in this ballet may be a handsome prince in disguise. The ballet is the ultimate fairy-tale where goodness and beauty triumph. An unforgettable journey and an ideal introduction to audiences of any age to the magic that is classical ballet. 7.30pm. Tickets from £22. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. For more information, please visit www.rosestheatre.org

6 NOVEMBER BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

This production tells the story of Belle, a beautiful and intelligent young woman who feels out of place in her provincial French village. When her father is imprisoned in a mysterious castle, Belle’s attempt to rescue him leads to her capture by the Beast, a grisly and fearsome monster. £20 (£19, children £15). 2.30pm. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk

7 NOVEMBER NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: THE SEAGULL

A young woman is desperate for fame and a way out. A young man is pining after the woman of his dreams. A successful writer longs for a sense of achievement. An actress wants to fight the changing of the times. In an isolated home in the countryside, dreams lie in tatters, hopes are dashed, and hearts broken. With nowhere left to turn, the

only option is to turn on each other. £16.50 (£14.50). 7pm. The Bacon Theatre, Hatherley Road, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. www.bacontheatre.co.uk

9 NOVEMBER AN EVENING WITH NOEL FITZPATRICK

An intimate insight into Noel’s extraordinary bionic world and the animals who have inspired him along the way. Noel will share a rollercoaster ride of successes and failures, demonstrating why love really is all that matters. 7.30pm. Tickets £37. Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, GL50 1QA. For more details, visit www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

10 NOVEMBER

SOUMIK DATTA – HOPE NOTES

Soumik Datta is an award-winning musician, producer and presenter. He plays the 19-stringed sarod and combines Indian music with spoken word, arts activism and electronica. The full-length production creates a tapestry of refugee stories, electric sarod, strings and animation. Tickets: pay what you choose. 7pm. Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, GL1 1NS.

12 NOVEMBER ART EXHIBITION

Churchdown Art Group are holding an Art Exhibition at The Churchdown Community Association, Parton Road, Churchdown, GL3 2JH. Come along and support the local artists. Refreshments will be available. Entrance is free and there is free parking on site. 10am-5pm.

12 NOVEMBER QUEENZ

The trailblazing, life affirming drag extravaganza taking the UK by storm. Featuring mind-blowing live vocals, and not a lip-sync in sight! Join these death-dropping divas as they slay the biggest hits of all time and serve up the sequin-clad pop party we’ve all been gagging for! 7.30pm. Tickets from £22. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. For more information, please visit www.rosestheatre.org

16 NOVEMBER

FLO & JOAN – SWEET RELEASE

Flo & Joan are climbing out of their pits, armed with a piano and percussion section to bring you a brand-new show of their critically acclaimed songs and comedy. Their unique, sharp-tongued style has taken them around the world with multiple sell-out tours. Tickets £22.50. 7.30pm. Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, Gloucester GL1 1NS.

19 NOVEMBER

CHRISTMAS DUMBLETON CRAFT & PRODUCE MARKET

We can’t wait to be back at one of our favourite venues for a one-off Christmas market. We will be open at 10am at Dumbleton village hall for you to come and browse a selection of stalls from crafters, artists, food and other handpicked local small businesses. Entry to the market is free! For more details, please visit www.createcheltenham.com

FREE promotion for festive events!

Share your festive events in our December 2022 issue. The first five listings* for festive events that we receive for each of our edition areas** will be included free of charge to make sure we have lots of fun and interesting events for our readers to attend this Christmas season! Please send your event details to info@thelocalanswer.co.uk

*Maximum 40 words. The name and date of the event are included in the word limit (you can also include a description, timings, ticket prices, contact details, website address, etc.). **Edition areas: Cheltenham, Gloucester, Cotswolds, Stroud District and North Gloucestershire (Tewkesbury/Winchcombe/Bishops Cleeve). Each listing is only guaranteed to appear in the edition area most relevant to the event location. Inclusion in additional areas is at the discretion of the editor. Events must be of a festive nature. If you miss out on a free listing, don’t worry – listings start from only £30+VAT to be included in 20,000+ magazines.

NOVEMBER

CHRISTMAS SHOEBOX APPEAL

Send a shoebox of gifts to a Ukrainian child this Christmas. Operation

Christmas Child is sending 2/3 of UK boxes to Ukrainian refugees. Donate a box and/or help out at the processing centre at St. Andrew’s Churchdown. For more details visit the website: stastb.church

25 NOVEMBER – 21 DECEMBER ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS TRAIL AT WESTONBIRT

26 NOVEMBER – 31 DECEMBER SNOW WHITE

Snow White, the palace orphan, is horrified that her evil queen Malvinha is stripping Tewkesbury’s natural resources to fund her desperate bid to be the fairest in the land. She sets out to save the county with the help of her buxom Nanny, the palace IT guy and some very strange small people. Little does she know that the queen is out to get her with a dodgy magic apple and a very talkative mirror. The Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. For dates, times and ticket prices, please visit www.rosestheatre.org

30 NOVEMBER HUNTING KILLERS

Open on selected evenings from 4pm to 9.30pm. There’s magic around every corner on Westonbirt’s Enchanted Christmas trail! Father Christmas’ elves have made their way to the arboretum to decorate for Christmas. But they’re running slightly behind schedule… will the trail be ready on time? You will witness the wonder, hilarity and general commotion that comes with playful elves creating Westonbirt’s spectacular illuminated trail. Advanced booking essential. To book tickets please visit forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/ enchanted-christmas

25 NOVEMBER – 24 DECEMBER

THE FLIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS Experience the magic of Christmas onboard a jumbo jet! Visit Cotswold Airport this winter and participate in the world’s first grotto experience onboard the Boeing 747 “Negus”. Let the elves show you how Negus is helping to save Christmas Day in this immersive theatrical production. For more information and to book your tickets, please visit www.theflightbeforechristmas.com

26 NOVEMBER – 2 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL AND CHRISTMAS FAYRE

At Holy Trinity, Longlevens, GL2 0AJ. The Festival runs from Saturday 26th November through to Friday 2nd December from 10am to 4pm each day. Sunday from noon to 4pm. The Christmas Fayre is in the Church Hall on Saturday 26th November from 12 noon to 2pm with stalls, raffles, tombolas and refreshments. Queries: 01452 500229.

Britain’s Top Crime Investigator Criminologist Mark Williams-Thomas is a multi-award winning TV Investigative Reporter & Former Police Detective. He’ll share his vast experience of investigating some of the most notorious cases and killers – in what promises to be a truly eye-opening and entertaining talk. He will discuss the mind of a murderer, human fascination with killers and the coldblooded cases which haunt him the most. Tickets £20. 7pm. Gloucester Guildhall, 23 Eastgate Street, GL1 1NS.

1 DECEMBER CHELTENHAM ANIMAL SHELTER FESTIVAL FAYRE

Come along to the Shelter for our popular Festive Fayre where you can meet Santa in his grotto, shop from local traders and enjoy some entertainment, games and tasty food. There will be a pop-up photoshoot for pets and family plus face painting and much more. 4.30-7pm. For more details please visit www.gawa.org.uk

1-4 DECEMBER OUTDOOR NATIVITY DISPLAY & CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Come and enjoy a lovely evening at our floodlit traditional Nativity Display on the Church Green, and visit the Christmas Tree Festival in the Church afterwards. Fantastic lights and beautifully decorated Christmas trees. Refreshments are available including homemade cake. 3pm-7.30pm

Hucclecote Methodist Church,

Carisbrooke Road, Gloucester GL3 3QP. (The Nativity will stay until Christmas).

1 DECEMBER – 1 JANUARY ELF HUNT

The naughty elves have gone missing in Batsford Arboretum, find them to win a prize! £3 per child. Admission fees apply to children and accompanying adults (all children must be accompanied by an adult). Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-inMarsh, GL56 9AT. For more details, please visit www.batsarb.co.uk

2 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS MARKET AT THE SUBSCRIPTION ROOMS

Get your Christmas shopping off to a fun and festive start with your favourite local marketeers! In our ballroom, you’ll find the finest homemade jewellery, hearty homeware, original artworks, prints, foods and vintage clothes. Other market dates: 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th December. For more details, visit thesubrooms.co.uk

3 DECEMBER CHORISTER CHRISTMAS COFFEE CONCERT

Enjoy special musical performances from the talented Gloucester Cathedral Choristers at their annual Christmas Coffee Concert in the Chapter House. Admission is £6 on the door. We look forward to welcoming you. All proceeds go toward the music of Gloucester Cathedral. Chapter House, 12 College Green, GL1 2LX. More details at gloucestercathedral.org.uk

4 DECEMBER

GLOUCESTER VEGAN CHRISTMAS MARKET

60 stalls of all vegan and cruelty-free shopping, food, drinks and gifts. Get your Christmas shopping done and also enjoy some yummy vegan food and drink. £3 entry on the door. Under 16s free with an adult. Dogs allowed on leads. 10am to 3pm. Blackfriars, Via Sacra, Ladybellegate Street, Gloucester GL1 2HN. For more information see the ‘Vegan Events Gloucestershire’ Facebook page.

7 DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS LANTERN WORKSHOP

Join artist Sarah Davis in the stunning Great Hall to create your own stained glass lantern with a gorgeous red glass bow and decorative beads. A lovely way to start the festive season and try your hand at a traditional craft. All materials and equipment will be provided to create your lantern using the copper foiling technique. £60pp. 2pm-4.30pm or 7pm-9.30pm. Berkeley Castle, GL13 9BQ. For more details, please visit www.berkeley-castle.com

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In the Garden

with Julia Smith

Plant bulbs ready for spring

The nights are really starting to draw in now and the amount of light available to plants is increasingly restricted. Depending on the weather, you may find that some summer flowering plants like pelargoniums (geraniums) are still in bloom!

Tidy up plant containers that have been used for summer bedding. Empty and clean them, and if they are not to be replanted with winter displays, put them away ready to hit the ground running in the spring. Just doing this makes you feel better!

Lilies will flower better if they have more time to get established

Now is a good time to plant lily bulbs, so if you come across some nice-looking bulbs, get them in the ground now rather than in spring. They will flower better next year as they

have had more time to get established. Add some garden compost to the planting hole (most lilies like to be planted deep – 12-20cm).

November is the month to plant those tulip bulbs, either in the borders or in pots of soilbased compost. If you use pots you can move them into the best position and take them away as they fade. Make sure you label any bulbs planted, as it is too easy to forget and spoil them by cutting through them with a spade when you try to pop something else in –we’ve all done it!

Prune blackcurrant bushes, taking out the oldest branches at the base. You could take some hardwood cuttings from 25cm long shoots of this year’s growth.

Now is also a good time to insulate any outdoor taps and pipes. You can buy tap covers which are

inflatable and are attached by Velcro and easily removed. Also drain off and store hosepipes so they don’t split over winter.

Sow a few extra in case of failures

Traditionally, the first week of November is the time to make winter sowings of peas and broad beans, which will then be ready to be harvested from May, earlier than spring sown crops. You can try ‘Claudia’, ‘Topic’ and ‘The Sutton’ or use the most popular autumn sowing cultivar ‘Aquadulce’. Sow in rows in a deeply dug bed and sow a few extra on the side of the row in case of failures, which are quite likely in a bad winter.

Sow the peas in rows and make sure you put in some pea-sticks or netting to support them as they grow. Most people grow hardy ones like ‘Feltham First’ or ‘Douce Provence’ or the lovely ‘Oregon Sugarpod’.

Wildlife Matters

with Dorothy Glen

Halloween Ladybeetles

Ladybirds may be the nation’s favourite beetle. Instantly recognisable for their cheerful colours and comforting roundness, they are a gardener’s friend and are magical to children.

The name ‘ladybird’ originated in Medieval Britain as a reference to the Virgin Mary, who was often painted wearing a red cloak. One story I read says that people prayed to the Virgin Mary for help after insects repeatedly destroyed crops. Soon after, huge numbers of ladybirds arrived and decimated the pests. The harvest was saved and the ladybirds were called ‘Beetles Of Our Lady’, which became ‘Lady Beetles’, and then ‘Ladybirds’.

Excellent pest control

Ladybirds of all species (27 in the UK) are still excellent pest control, as they happily feast on aphids, scale insects and other ‘plant-feeders’ which, left unchecked, can cause significant damage to plants and crops. They are so effective

that you can buy packs of ladybirds online to release into your garden. This is much better than using pesticides.

Unfortunately, because of this reputation, large numbers of Asian harlequin ladybirds were introduced to the USA in 1979 for pest control. Harlequins spread rapidly and are now the most common species in the USA. Having reached our southern shores in 2004, they are now one of the UK’s most common ladybirds too. In fact, in Gloucestershire they may already be the most common.

Harlequins eat the larvae of other ladybirds

This is bad news for our native ladybirds, because as well as aphids, the voracious harlequins are also happy to eat the larvae of other ladybirds. The number of two-spot ladybirds has already declined dramatically since the harlequin arrived.

The other reason the harlequins are tarnishing the reputation of the humble

ladybird is because they like to hibernate indoors, often in large numbers. If you have noticed the beetles repeatedly finding their way inside at this time of year, they will be harlequins making a nuisance of themselves, whereas our native species are content to hibernate outdoors.

Their pattern varies

Because they start to invade houses around 31st October, harlequins are known in the USA as ‘Halloween ladybeetles’. In the UK, we don’t yet have a common nickname for the harlequins, but you can easily recognise them as they are larger than our native species and have brown legs. Most commonly they are red with 18 spots, or black with four red spots, but their pattern varies greatly.

So when you see these familiar insects, have a closer look and see what you’ve got.

In a way, the prevalence of the invasive harlequins makes our beloved native ladybirds even more special.

blinds

Interior Design with Gill Greenwell

Home gifts from the high street

When I’m travelling, I’m always on the lookout for interesting design and homeware shops for unusual gifts for family and friends. When I was in Spain a couple of months ago, I stumbled across one such store and was pleasantly surprised when I realised it was UK highstreet favourite Zara.

At this time of the year, we are all looking for welldesigned, good value gifts. Where better to start than our own much-loved high-street stores? Here are some of my picks.

Chic glassware

I was drawn to the shelves of colourful glasses while browsing in Zara. Also check out the latest trend for mottled glassware at Monsoon – the jugs and glasses in bright cobalt blue and citrus green will brighten up any winter tablescape or cocktail trolley.

I am lusting after Henry Holland’s gorgeous multicoloured Murano glass tumblers, available from online store

Freemans. They will certainly be on my Christmas list.

Stylish ceramics

For unusual ceramics look no further than Anthropologie; a perfect hunting ground for presents for your bohochic friends. The fun Audrey face vases bring a dash of quirkiness to bookshelves and the patterned House of Hackney cup and saucer set would add an elegant touch to anyone’s afternoon tea.

At Zara, the brightly painted floral earthenware plates are sure to pep up kitchen shelves. For your green-fingered friends, the Pegi painted plant pot from Oliver Bonas would look fabulous filled with an interesting-shaped cactus.

Cool cushions

Cushions make great gifts, especially for anyone starting out in their first home, and the high-street fashion stores have some of the best buys. My niece has just moved into her first flat share in London, and I’ve found her a pink, gold and aqua flower-patterned cushion that will really brighten up her bedroom.

Urban Outfitters have some of the coolest designs around – their folksy tufted cushions come in mini versions too. For a more classic, vintage-boho look French Connection’s tasselled Katrina cushion would

add a spicy pop of colour to a winter sitting room.

Special scents

In the winter I like to have lots of candles around my home, and they make good gifts. The high-street clothes chains have some strong offerings here too. I’m impressed by the new Marks and Spencer classy Apothecary range, and I love their affordable cityscape lightup candles. My daughter is a fan of Anthropologie candles and always has one burning in the winter months. I’ve got my eye on a House of Hackney Glass Tortoise candle for her.

Add to basket

If you’re still stuck for ideas, why not brighten someone’s bathtime with the Urban Outfitters disco bath light? Their logo bath mats are guaranteed to make anyone smile. Now all you need to do is ‘add to basket’ and you will have your Christmas presents sorted in plenty of time for the big day.

Image: Marks and Spencer

Image: Oliver Bonas

Image: Oliver Bonas

© Lovatts Puzzles

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Dan Clifford is leader of pack

Dan Clifford has been in and around Stroud Hockey Club for a quarter of a century, he’s in his 11th season as captain of the men’s flagship team and he reckons he’s scored some 500 goals for the club.

That’s a pretty impressive sporting CV in anyone’s book and the good news for everyone associated with the club is that the 38-year-old is enjoying his hockey now as much as he ever did.

His story begins way back in the late 1990s when he was aged just 12.

“It was in the days before the club had a junior section,” he said. “My uncle, Ian Spindler, a former Stroud captain, took me to the club.

“I watched a few games and I thought, ‘I like this’. In those days you weren’t allowed to play adult hockey until you were 14 so I just trained with the club for a year or so.”

And the one-time Archway School pupil, who is Stroud born and bred, clearly made an impression because as soon as he was old enough he was playing with the seniors.

He was lucky enough, too, to play alongside his uncle in the 2nds before graduating to the 1sts at the age of 17.

And as his goal record would suggest, Clifford is a forward. It’s a position he has occupied pretty much throughout his time with the club, although he has occasionally played on the right side of midfield.

So what sort of player is he?

“If you’d asked me that question 10 years ago I’d have given you a different answer,” he laughed. “Back then I’d have said I was a quick, direct forward. Now I’m a bit more wily, I hold the ‘D’ a bit more, I chip in with a few more goals.

“I always try to hit 20 a season and over the years I’ve managed to do that.”

And while nothing much has changed over the years as far as Clifford’s goal output is concerned, it is fair to say that an awful lot has changed at Stroud Hockey Club over the past 25 years.

“When I started we had two men’s teams and one ladies’ team,” he said. “The club have grown a lot since then. Now we’ve got three men’s teams and three ladies’ teams and we want to set up a 4th team in both sections.

“But the biggest difference is the club’s junior section which has 200-250 members, that’s the real lifeblood of the club.”

Clifford, who is on the club’s committee, is, as you’d expect, heavily involved with the junior section.

His nine-year-old daughter Sophie, a defender, plays for both the under-10s and under12s, and he coaches various age groups on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.

“When I coach the youngsters

and they walk off the pitch at the end of the session with smiles on their faces I know I must be doing something right,” he said.

Clifford also coaches the ladies on a Wednesday evening, which makes you marvel at how he finds time to captain the men’s team as well.

As with the coaching, captaincy is something that he enjoys very much, helped, no doubt, by the fact that the club have enjoyed a fair amount of success during his tenure.

The club now play in West Division 2 East alongside the likes of Cirencester, Lansdown and Newent, and Clifford said: “We’ve won three promotions under my captaincy, we’ve got ourselves to a decent level.

“It’s tier 3 hockey in the West, it’s a good standard.”

And Clifford remains ambitious. “We want to finish in the top two or three, that’s the aspiration,” he said. “We finished sixth of 12 last season, we had a few injuries and were a bit inconsistent.

“Two teams get relegated but only one goes up so it’s a bit brutal, but we’ve got a talented squad.”

Clifford’s role is key both on and off the pitch, of course, so what sort of captain is he?

“I’m not a big shouty kind of guy,” he said. “Rather than push myself forward, I’ve always tried to push the club forward.

“I suppose I’m a jovial father figure to some, I’m just about the right age to link the older ones and the younger ones.”

And hockey is one of those team sports which certainly spans the ages.

“I’m very lucky, every time I walk onto the pitch I’ve got a smile on my face,” he said. Full story online.

with Roger Jackson

Please email full details to sport@thelocalanswer.co.uk

Stroud captain Dan Clifford

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